Tyra Banks was a model, actress, had a TV show, and wrote a book called Modelland. The lady is busy and talented! For her next endeavor, Banks has announced that she’s planning on opening up an amusement park named after her book. Interestingly, the amusement park is said to be on trend with AR and VR technology!
The Beauty of Inclusivity
Since the project is in its beginning stages, People is reporting that the park might pick Santa Monica Place as its home. This location has plenty of trendy L.A. restaurants, nightlife, and the beach is right down the street. Being on the West Side and within a stone’s throw of Hollywood is a perfect location for a fashion showdown.
The model turned entertainment mogul says that parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios inspired her to make the move to an amusement park owner. Mix her appreciation for the two parks with her passion for fashion and there the idea bloomed.
Variety reports that Banks wants to keep the modeling inspired attraction inclusive to everyone. In the interview, she says, “I’m talking about modeling for the masses.” In a new era where body acceptance and inclusivity are taking the place of the old school “mean girl” ideals, this is a breath of fresh air for this writer.
Growing up, the models I’d see strutting down the catwalk were strikingly beautiful and gaunt – an ultra-exclusive club if you will. Tyra Banks was a model that redefined beauty and fierceness in the modeling world and now she’s doing it again by inviting everyone to the show.
In the interview Banks says that “Modelland is going to be a place where the modeling world meets fantasy, meets entertainment, meets technology, meets retail, meets dining, meets … your fiercest best self you could ever imagine.”
She affirms that “All types of beauty — men and women, young and older — are invited to transform into the dream version of themselves.” And that overall, she wants visitors to “feel overjoyed and empowered.”
Tyra Talks Tech
For all us techies out there, TechCrunch spoke with Tyra and got the details about how the latest reality technologies will play a part in Modelland’s attractions. They say, “The attraction will combine fantasy with interactive entertainment (think some augmented reality and virtual reality)”.
VR and AR technologies can do some pretty mind blowing things. Makeup companies are jumping on board with AR apps that can let you try on expensive makeup, test new hairstyles without scissors, and a new dye job in a wink! Some apps will even let people try on clothes and shoes before they buy them.
Virtual reality applications can be used to create avatars of all kinds and throw you into environments and games that you’d never get to play at home.
There are even mixed reality programs that can be used to display what players do virtually onto screens that others can view, making experiences eye-catching and entertaining.
Whatever Tyra Banks thinks up, turns to gold. We can’t wait to see how she blends technology, fashion, and inclusivity together. Genius!
